MADISON, Wis.— A UW Madison Medical School student recently opened up a letter that changed her life. 

Elizabeth Maginot matched for a residency program at the University of Nebraska as a general surgery resident.

The fourth year student said she couldn't have done it without one particular relative and UW Health physician, Dr. Kathleen Maginot. The Pediatric Cardiologist is Elizabeth's aunt and so thrilled for this accomplishment.

"I am very proud of her. I'm trying not to cry, I’m very proud of her," Dr. Maginot said about a calling that now runs in the family.

Elizabeth said she shadowed her aunt and loved always bugging her aunt about medical school-related questions in her formative years, but didn't decide on med school until college. She added her aunt served as quite a role model.

"Medicine is often a job that is like a very male-dominated field. So, I think seeing my aunt, a woman like in medicine, practicing every day, being very strong in her field, is something that was also very inspiring," Elizabeth said.

The rising resident said when she learned about general surgery, she knew it was the right fit.

"I just absolutely fell in love with the OR. I love kind of the fast paced setting. I loved how kind of surgeons would be able to interact with patients," she said about the speciality.

Dr. Maginot believes her niece will do well in her field because of her bedside manner.  She has a brother, JB, born with Down Syndrome and has relatives who have battled dementia, making care taking a priority.  

"I love how Elizabeth was able to relate to other people. She's really caring, and I think that shows in her ability to listen and really understand when people are talking. So, it's not all about her and what she's going through. It's about what that person is is going through," she said.

And while the two won't see each other as much as Elizabeth heads to Nebraska, the two said they plan to keep up with one another a visit often.

You can learn more about the 2022 match day and graduating UW School of Medicine class, here.